Night Hawk
NatureWhat is the meaning of Night Hawk in the Bible?
The night-hawk, or night-jar, is a nocturnal bird that feeds on insects in flight and possesses distinctive physical traits that historically contributed to folklore and superstition regarding its nature.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the biological reality of the night-hawk clarifies why it was classified among unclean animals in biblical law, reflecting ancient distinctions based on observable behavior and habitat rather than moral judgment.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Night Hawk were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Night Hawk in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Night Hawk clarify?
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Night Hawk." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/night-hawk/